Introduction

Action Ideas That Work

Volunteer Driver Training Program
    Welcome / Introduction
    Who Are We Serving,
    Who Are We
    Challenges for Caregivers in
    Regards to Transportation
    Potential Challenges for
    Volunteer Drivers
     - Listening
     - Communication
     - Sensitivity
     - Preventing Agitation
     - Dealing with Agitation
     - Providing Physical Assistance
     - Boundaries
     - Safety Considerations for
       Volunteer Drivers
     - Emergency Procedures
   Transportation Specifics
   for Leaders
     - Risk Management
     - Insurance for Volunteers
     - Insurance and Liability
       Concerns
    Materials Needed to Teach
    Conclusion

Resource Sheets

Resources / Links

Sensitivity

Older adults may develop conditions which require sensitivity

1. An older person’s pride may be at stake—be patient and empathetic. There are some conditions to be especially mindful of because they may cause your client difficulty during the transportation experience. For many older adults, transportation represents their independence and is a vital connection for their socialization and recreational interests. Making the transition to depending on others for their transportation is often difficult and a source of concern and frustration for them. Unexpected situations and/or reactions may emerge. Further, clients would rather not be a burden or cause any hardship or inconvenience. Therefore, they may not always ask for rides for social purposes, or what may be considered less “essential” trips than for purposes such as medical appointments and grocery shopping. Further, just one incident of insensitivity can affect an older adult and prevent them from asking for a ride again.
2. Older persons are not disabled because they are old. However, the aging process may result in disabling conditions. These conditions may reduce physical strength and stamina, balance and capacity to understand or make reasonable decisions, etc. so it is important to try to be understanding and patient. It helps to be aware of and sensitive to the changes associated with aging when caring for an older adult. Many of the human body’s functions are affected by aging, resulting in problems with vision, balance, and pain, and can create transportation challenges.

Vision Impairment: When transporting someone with a vision impairment, it is good to explain exactly what you are doing and why. If he uses a cane or dog guide, always lead by standing on the opposite side of the cane or the dog and stay one-half pace ahead. Ask if he would like assistance before providing it. If possible, have him exit from the nontraffic side of the car, and try to be specific when giving directions on the first visit to a location (i.e., to your right/left, approximately 100 feet, etc.)

Problems with Balance: Loss of muscle strength and coordination, arthritis in the knees and ankles and changes in the inner ear all hinder balance – especially as people age. This can make getting in and out of a car and positioning in the car difficult. Allow someone who has problems with balance plenty of time to enter and exit the car. It may take a few extra seconds for him to gain balance when moving from a sitting to standing position.

Pain: Older adults experience pain from a multitude of conditions—some short term, some periodic, and some chronic or long term. For example, people with joint pain, such as arthritis, may find it painful to enter and exit a vehicle. To be sensitive to this, give your passenger extra time and provide assistance with a gentle touch. Additionally, people with dementia can become agitated due to pain, especially if they cannot verbally communicate what they are feeling. If asked a yes or no question about this, they may be able to tell you whether they are experiencing pain.